Manager, Automation Engineering

A rapidly scaling, globally recognized technology manufacturer at the center of AI and high-performance computing infrastructure is entering a major new phase of growth, supported by a recently announced multibillion-dollar acquisition and strong market momentum. Public disclosures describe the business as a high-growth leader in advanced liquid cooling for next-generation data centers, with approximately $550 million in expected sales over the next 12 months.

The company is seeking a Manager, Automation Engineering to lead the strategy, development, and deployment of scalable manufacturing automation solutions across the organization. This role will manage a team of automation engineers and technical specialists while partnering closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, IT, and Operations to improve productivity, quality, safety, and cost through standardized automation platforms. This is a high-impact leadership role for someone with deep expertise in manufacturing automation, PLC/SCADA systems, industrial robotics, machine vision systems, and Lean Six Sigma.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Automation Engineering team, including coaching, performance management, hiring, and capability building.
• Own the technical roadmap for manufacturing automation technologies, including PLC, SCADA, HMI, robotics, vision systems, and data integration platforms.
• Serve as the senior technical authority for automation projects from concept through design, implementation, validation, and handoff to operations.
• Define and standardize automation architectures, hardware platforms, software standards, documentation practices, and cybersecurity requirements.
• Lead the development of automated hardware and software solutions for product assembly and testing.
• Ensure reliable operation and continuous improvement of existing automated manufacturing systems.
• Drive Lean and Six Sigma initiatives to improve throughput, quality, productivity, and operational efficiency.
• Prepare and lead business cases, project charters, budgets, and execution plans for capital automation initiatives.
• Manage the automation project portfolio, including budgets, timelines, risks, and resource planning.
• Ensure commissioning, validation, and documentation meet internal standards, regulatory requirements, and quality expectations.
• Establish lifecycle management and obsolescence strategies for automation systems and controls platforms.
• Provide escalation-level troubleshooting support for complex automation and equipment issues.
• Partner cross-functionally to translate business needs into scalable technical solutions across one or more sites.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in automation engineering within a manufacturing environment.
• 3+ years of leadership experience managing technical teams and cross-functional initiatives.
• Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation required.
• Knowledge of IPC-A-610, ISO 9001, Lean, and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Strong project leadership experience across complex automation and capital equipment programs.
• Experience leading automation initiatives in a high-growth technology manufacturing environment.
• Deep expertise in industrial automation, robotics engineering, industrial networks, and control systems architecture.
• Experience with automated assembly, test automation, and manufacturing data integration.
• Proven ability to manage multi-site automation programs and standardization efforts.

• The opportunity to join a high-growth, internationally recognized technology manufacturer during a period of exceptional expansion.
• A visible leadership role with direct influence on automation strategy, operational scalability, and manufacturing excellence.
• A collaborative, innovation-focused culture where technical leadership and continuous improvement are highly valued.
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive health benefits starting on day one.
• Paid vacation, flex days, and a company-wide holiday shutdown.
• A casual yet professional work environment.
• Retention-focused rewards, including additional vacation and monetary recognition tied to tenure.
• Company-funded retirement contributions to support long-term financial goals.